Stephan Bonnar vs. Karlos Vemola targeted for UFC on Versus 5

A light-heavyweight bout between veteran Stephan Bonnar (13-7 MMA, 7-6 UFC) and Karlos Vemola (8-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC) is in the works for UFC on Versus 5.

Bonnar first tweeted news of the matchup earlier today, and ESPN’s Jon Anik later revealed the event.
UFC officials since have stated verbal agreements are in place for the bout.

Although not officially by the organization, UFC on Versus 5 is expected to take place Aug. 14, likely at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee.

The night’s main card airs on Versus, though it’s not clear if Bonnar vs. Vemola will be part of the broadcast.

Bonnar, a fan favorite since his runner-up finish on “The Ultimate Fighter 1,” suffered a three-fight losing streak from 2009-2010. But following a TKO of Krzysztof Soszynski and a decision victory over Igor Pokrajac in 2010, he now looks to match a career best with his third straight victory. Of his six career UFC losses, all but one came to former or current champions: Forrest Griffin (twice), Rashad Evans, Jon Jones and Mark Coleman.

Vemola, a 25-year-old Czech prospect, made his octagon debut at UFC 116 and suffered a decision loss to heavyweight Jon Madsen. The national wrestling champion then dropped to light heavyweight and scored a first-round TKO of Seth Petruzelli at UFC 122. However, a UFC 128 bout with Luiz Cane didn’t materialize when Vemola was forced off the card with an undisclosed injury.

As the UFC 189 tour made its last stop in Dublin, featherweight champ Jose Aldo was met with a torrent of abuse from the Irish fans. It might have been unpleasant, but it might also have been just what he needed.